Managing your money

If you need help managing your money, have money worries or need information about benefits there are a range of tools and advice available.

Government help

You can access benefits and financial help (external link) on the UK government website. The site includes information on accessing all government services including:

  • benefits  

  • work and finding a job

  • services for disabled people

You may be able to claim a reduction on your council tax bill if you are on Universal Credit. Any reduction will be based on your current circumstances. To find out if you are eligible, make an application with Sutton Council (external link)
 

Universal Credit

Universal Credit (external link)  is a monthly payment for people who are on low income or are out of work. It is paid by the government. Universal Credit is being rolled out in stages across the UK and is replacing some benefits.
 


Citizens advice bureau (CAB)

CAB Sutton offer free, confidential and impartial advice on a range of issues. Speak to them about:

  • benefits

  • debt

  • housing

  • immigration
     

Advice Link Partnership Sutton (ALP)

ALP Sutton (external link) offers free confidential, independent and impartial advice to residents of Sutton. They work alongside the CAB and Sutton ageuk to provide advice on:

  • debt

  • benefits

  • housing

  • employment

  • social care and caring
     

Money Advice Service

The Money Advice Service (external link) is free and impartial. Use it to get:

  • debt and money advice

  • help with budgeting

  • benefits advice
     

Benefits calculator

Use a benefit calculator to find out:

  • what benefits you could get

  • how to claim

  • how your benefits will be affected if you start work

The government website has more information for both universal credit and housing benefits (external link) and links to helpful, free to use benefits calculators.

Reducing your fuel bills

You can reduce your bills by following these energy-saving tips:

  • shut outside doors

  • close curtains at night

  • shut all windows, unless you need ventilation

  • turn the room thermostat down as far as you can, while still remaining comfortable

  • wear warm clothes in winter

  • turn off the heating in late spring and summer

  • boil only the water you need rather than filling the kettle completely

  • don’t leave appliances like televisions in standby mode; they still use electricity; instead, switch them off properly at the ‘off’ switch

  • turn off all lights when you don’t need them.

You may also be entitled to winter fuel payments (external link) from the government.

Keep up with payments or you may potentially lose your home.